The points of issue
US Simon & Schuster first, 1970: an octavo in buff cloth-backed boards with a pictorial dust jacket; first printing carries the Simon & Schuster first-edition statement on the copyright page with no later-printing line. The first Dortmunder novel, introducing comic-caper protagonist John Dortmunder, and a cornerstone of comic crime fiction. Jacket priced for 1970.
Is this the true first?
US Simon & Schuster 1970 is the true first; the UK Hodder & Stoughton edition is a first-thus.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions are smaller, lack the jacket price, and may show a club blind-stamp; later printings are stated on the verso.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Hot Rock a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US Simon & Schuster first, 1970: an octavo in buff cloth-backed boards with a pictorial dust jacket; first printing carries the Simon & Schuster first-edition statement on the copyright page with no later-printing line. The first Dortmunder novel, introducing comic-caper protagonist John Dortmunder, and a cornerstone of comic crime fiction. Jacket priced for 1970.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. US Simon & Schuster 1970 is the true first; the UK Hodder & Stoughton edition is a first-thus.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions are smaller, lack the jacket price, and may show a club blind-stamp; later printings are stated on the verso.
I have a first edition of The Hot Rock — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.